Psalm 34:18 - The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

I'm Garey Walker, a bi-vocational pastor juggling roles between working at an Amazon fulfillment center and leading a small church called Living Way Church in the Carlisle, PA, area. It's a balancing act that keeps me on my toes, but it's also where I find purpose and fulfillment.

I'm stepping into the blogging world with a heart full of hope and a pocketful of vulnerability. Why? Well, it's a two-pronged mission for me. First and foremost, this blog serves as a public journal. In this space, I can pour out my thoughts, wrestle with my demons, and find some semblance of healing. Journaling is a powerful tool in the fight against depression, and I'm banking on that as I navigate through my own struggles.

But there's more to it than just my own journey. I've come to realize that my battles with depression aren't just mine to bear—they're a shared burden that many others in similar circumstances are carrying, too. So, in opening up about my experiences, my hopes are twofold: to shine a light on the genuine struggles that believers can face and to offer a glimmer of hope to those who might be trudging through the darkness alongside me.

What can you expect from this blog? Well, it's going to be a mixed bag. I'll be sharing snippets of my own story—raw, unfiltered, and sometimes messy—as I grapple with depression and, God willing, inch closer to healing. But more than that, I'll offer insights, reflections, and perhaps even a bit of hard-earned wisdom on navigating the murky waters of depression while clinging to faith.

Before I sign off, I want to acknowledge the most significant struggle and greatest pain in all of this: the toll that my depression has taken on my family. My wife, Autumn, and my adult children, Alyssa and Gabe, have been unwavering support pillars. But it hasn't been easy for any of us. My struggles have strained our relationships, tested our patience, and caused more than a few tears along the way. Yet, amid it all, their love remains steadfast, their grace unending. For that, I am immeasurably grateful.

So here's to new beginnings, honest conversations, and the journey ahead. I'm glad you're here with me.



Got questions or thoughts you'd like to share? I'd love to hear from you! Whether you're wrestling with your own struggles, seeking advice, or simply want to connect, your voice matters.

Feel free to reach out to me using email at hopeinthejourney@tlw.church, or connect with me on social media (Facebook or Twitter). I'm here to listen, support, and journey alongside you.

Let's walk this road together.